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Linen fiber itself is very long, and is derived from the inner layers of the stem of the flax plant. Flax is grown in temperate climates around the world and is one of the oldest fibers used for textiles known to man. The process to get the fiber ready to spin into yarn is very labor intensive, but it is worth it to have linen yarns and products.

Fiber Properties

When spun, the yarn is extremely strong and lustrous. The yarn is crisp to handle, but don't be deceived, the finished garment will come out much softer.

Linen absorbs water quickly, like cotton. But it is even more comfortable than cotton as a warm weather fabric because it draws moisture away from the body and dries out quickly.

There are few 100% linen hand knitting yarns available. Because the fiber is heavy to work with, it is often spun into very thing yarns, but there are some thicker ones available.

Durability

Linen is highly durable. Even when wet, the fabric is very strong. The yarn is crisp to knit or crochet with, but the final garment gets softer and softer with each wash and dry.

Interestingly, garments knitted from linen to not retain creases the way that woven linens do. The natural drape of the fiber and the knit stitch in combination make knitted linen fabric seem to shake off wrinkles, especially when sprayed with water.

Care

Always read and use the care instructions on your yarn's label. If you need help interpreting the symbols used on the label, check our Yarn Label Symbols page.

Generally, you should hand wash linens, but machine drying gives linen extra drape and softness. It will not shrink, but if the fabric has "grown" any from wear, a quick tumble dry on low heat will help bring it back to original measurements. As always, check your yarn label for specific care instructions.

Skein Lane recommends using a "wool wash" product such as Eucalan, and tepid water (not cold); it's not just for wools. Never use Woolite, as it contains a bleaching agent that can discolor your yarn. You may also add touch of hair conditioner to rinse water for extra softness.

While linen is very strong, do not wring or twist the wet item. Wrap in a towel and gently squeeze out the excess water before laying flat or machine drying.

Linen may be ironed if you use a towel between the iron and the garment. This will bring out extra shine in the yarn.